Fire and security installation at Greater Manchester Mental Health Facility

Background

ASEL were awarded a major contract by principal contractor Chris Bowker Ltd to design, install, and commission multiple critical systems at a new, state-of-the-art mental health unit within the North Manchester General Hospital. This was a highly sensitive and complex project due to the nature of the facility, which supports vulnerable patients and their carers therefore, ensuring a secure, safe, and unobtrusive environment was paramount.

Integrated security systems installation at North Manchester General Hospital Mental Health Unit

The project spanned just over 10 months from initiation to completion and involved the full lifecycle delivery of fire alarm, access control, intruder alarm, and CCTV systems, along with an emergency voice communication system. Given the specialist requirements of a mental health setting, ASEL worked in close collaboration with both the principal contractor and the NHS Trust. A consultative approach was adopted from the outset, with weekly meetings held to review designs, address feedback, and ensure system functionality met the hospital’s unique needs. Specific adaptations included the use of keyswitch operated call points instead of break glass units, and tailored alarm settings that reduced patient distress.

ASEL deployed a skilled project team comprising:

• Two Project Managers (one on-site and one offsite for contract and change management)
• Dedicated NHS-trained engineers for each system discipline
• Specialist third-party partners to ensure project resourcing and delivery within the tight schedule

System installations were aligned to the latest NHS specifications and safety standards, and coordinated seamlessly with a broader team of contractors on-site to match the construction programme.

Systems installed and networked into the Trust’s central control room included:

• Fire Alarm: A networked analogue addressable system (L1 category – the highest standard for hospitals) across the Northview building and Energy Centre.
• Access Control: A fully integrated Paxton Net2 and Net2 Entry system.
• CCTV: An IP-based surveillance system using Hanwha technology, installed throughout internal and external areas.
• Emergency Voice Communications: A hardwired system enabling two-way audio between control panels and Type B refuge stations for emergency evacuation of mobility-impaired individuals.
• Comprehensive training was also provided to hospital staff before go-live, ensuring confident and effective system use.

Results

The project was delivered on time and to specification, with all installations successfully completed within the construction programme. Progress was meticulously tracked using Gantt charts and reviewed weekly by ASEL, the principal contractor, and the NHS Trust.

Key outcomes included:

• Seamless integration with the hospital’s existing infrastructure,
• A future-proofed, compliant, and patient-centric system design
• Strong collaboration and trust built with NHS stakeholders.

Following completion, ASEL was appointed to manage the ongoing maintenance of all installed systems, providing continuity and expert aftercare support to the hospital.